Troubled At Thought Of A High School With No Band Or Choir

I was disappointed to hear of the layoffs that have occurred in Payson. There are many good teachers and administrators that have dedicated their lives to Payson’s children and to the school district.

Mostly, I was saddened to hear that Mr. Potvin has been let go. As an alumni of the Payson High School Marching Band I spent four years in Mr. Potvin’s classroom. The countless hours spent in rehearsals and on trips taught me about the technique and passion that it takes to not only play, but to create music.

My graduating class was the first group of students in Payson to be taught by Mr. Potvin when he first arrived in Payson, and I will fondly remember trips, band camps and autumn football games as the best moments in my high school career.

I am troubled at the thought of a high school with no band or choir. I cannot bear to think of what kind of education these young students will receive without these programs. It was only through my experiences in band, with Mr. Potvin, that prepared me for a music scholarship to NAU.

Where will high school students in Payson have the opportunities to learn not only how to play instruments but work ethic and enthusiasm for the arts?

All one can say is shame on you school board members for not being able to provide this excellent teacher, and many others the opportunity to teach our youth.